So, you’ve booked your ticket to Bali—congrats, you’re about to enter a world of stunning beaches, tropical cocktails, and main character energy moments. But before you panic-Google “best things to do in Bali,” let us make your life easier. This 10-Day Bali itinerary for first-timers covers everything you need for the perfect first-time trip: breathtaking views, delicious food, and just enough adventure to make your followers jealous.
Photo by Hailey Tong on Unsplash
Day 1-2: Canggu – Surf, Shop & Sip Cocktails Like You Belong Here
Welcome to Canggu, Bali’s hipster-meets-beach-babe paradise. Check into your dreamy Alfred’s villa (because why settle for a hotel when you can have a private pool?), then start your day right with a smoothie bowl at Kynd, or a French style breakfast at Little Frenchie.
Spend the afternoon bouncing between Batu Bolong and Echo Beach—surf, shop, pamper yourself at You Spa or lounge at Times Beach Warung with a coconut in hand. Sunset? Head to Sol for music and aperol spritz. And for dinner, go for the ultimate meat heaven Smoke (yes, the steak is that good).
On Day 2, take a leisurely morning yoga class at Samadi Yoga, explore Berawa Beach, and indulge in an afternoon spa treatment at You Spa before hitting up The Lawn for an epic sunset session.
Photo by Silas Baisch on Unsplash
Day 3-4: Ubud – A Little Culture, A Lot of Jungle Magic
Rise and shine, queen—it’s time to chase waterfalls and pretend you’re in Eat, Pray, Love. First stop: Tegalalang Rice Terraces, because no Bali trip is complete without the iconic jungle swing photo. Next, make some mischievous new friends at Sacred Monkey Forest (but hold onto your sunglasses, these little guys have sticky fingers).
For lunch, soak in the dreamy views at Zest Ubud before heading to Tirta Empul Temple for a traditional Balinese water blessing. It’s equal parts spiritual and aesthetic. Cap off the day with a golden hour stroll at Campuhan Ridge Walk, then treat yourself to a next-level dining experience at Locavore (if you snagged a reservation) or Hujan Locale for some delicious Indonesian flavors.
On Day 4, take a Balinese cooking class, explore hidden waterfalls like Tukad Cepung, and end the evening with a traditional Kecak Fire Dance at Pura Dalem Ubud.
Day 5-6: Nusa Islands – Island-Hopping, But Make It Dramatic
If you’re not on a boat by 7 AM, are you even in Bali? Take a fast boat to Nusa Penida, the island where the cliffs are massive, the beaches are ridiculous, and your legs will feel sore the next day. First up: Kelingking Beach, a.k.a. the T-Rex-shaped cliff you’ve seen all over Instagram. Then, explore Diamond Beach (hello, postcard vibes) and float in the natural infinity pool at Angel’s Billabong.
For lunch, recharge at Penida Colada before heading back to Broken Beach for more jaw-dropping views. Stay overnight in Nusa Lembongan for a second day of adventure, where you can snorkel with manta rays at Manta Bay, visit Atuh Beach, and relax at Crystal Bay before heading back to Bali.
Day 7-8: Uluwatu – Cliffside Glam & Beach Club Energy
Time to channel your inner beach goddess in Uluwatu. Start the day at Padang Padang Beach, where the waves are chill and the vibe is pure paradise. Brunch at Ours for healthy-but-delicious eats before exploring the legendary Uluwatu Temple (watch out for sneaky monkeys!).
For the ultimate sunset, grab a cocktail at Single Fin, then end the night with an unforgettable dinner at Tacos Aqui for the most delicious tacos in the island. On Day 8, soak in the sun at Thomas Beach, experience luxury at The Beach House, or book a surf lesson at Dreamland Beach before wrapping up with an evening at Savaya.
Photo by Muhammad Novrijal on Unsplash
Day 9-10: Seminyak – Retail Therapy & Beach Club Goodbyes
It’s your last day (don’t be sad, you’ll be back), so spend it shopping in the famous Kayu Aya street, picking up dreamy homeware at Kim Soo, or getting a Bali glow-up at the spas around the area. Grab one last brunch at Kilo Seminyak, then head to The Plantation Grill, Saltlick or Mauri for some amazing dinner.
On Day 10, enjoy one last relaxing beach walk, grab a coffee at Revolver, and make your way to Petitenget Beach for some final sun-soaked drinks before heading to the airport.
And just like that, you’ve mastered Bali. From sunrise to sunset toasts, the best things to do in Bali itinerary has everything you need for an unforgettable first trip. So pack that bikini, bring an extra SD card, and get ready for the best vacation ever.
If you’re looking for accommodation for your Bali trip, check out our Villas for your unforgettable Bali escape. Follow the Instagram of Alfred in Bali for daily holiday inspiration!
